Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), through the Japanese Government, has put forth a proposal for the co-development of a new frigate in collaboration with Indonesia, aiming to enhance its security alliances in East and Southeast Asia.
The development of joint frigates is anticipated to bolster strategic cooperation between Japan and Indonesia particularly in maritime security, which is crucial in a region facing increasing challenges from territorial disputes and the need for a robust maritime defense.
In March 2021, Japan proposed a deal to Indonesia for upgraded Mogami-class frigates, valued at JP¥300 billion (Rp30.8 trillion). The plan includes constructing four frigates in Japan, with an additional four to be built in Indonesia.
Defense Minister of Japan, Gen Nakatani, is scheduled to visit Indonesia from Sunday, January 5, 2025 to Wednesday, January 8, 2025 and present the joint development proposal to Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin. This initiative marks a significant step in Japan’s strategy in fostering deeper military cooperation in the region.
It aims to leverage the current political climate under President Prabowo Subianto, who has a history of engaging in defense negotiations with Japan during his tenure as Indonesia’s Defense Minister.
The visit is also expected to lay the groundwork for a subsequent high-level meeting between Shigeru Ishiba, Japanese Prime Minister and Indonesian officials in January 2025.
The proposal centers on the co-development of advanced frigates according to JMSDF’s specifications. It also aligns with Indonesia’s strategic interest in upgrading its naval capabilities, such as in modern submarine naval defense systems.
Previous negotiations during the then Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s administration was stalled due to financial constraints tied to Indonesia’s ambitious project in relocating its capital city to Nusantara Capital City (IKN).
However, President Prabowo is open in reviving previous discussions with renewed focus on regional security dynamics, which reflects a more pragmatic approach in advancing both mutual defense interests through collaboration.
This strategy aligns with Japan’s revised National Security Strategy of 2022, which seeks to boost defense exports through public-private partnerships. By advancing joint development projects, both countries are poised to create a new chapter in defense, contributing greater stability and security in the region.
The new frigates, the Mogani-class stealth frigates, represent significant advancement in Japan’s naval capabilities designed to enhance the operational flexibility and combat readiness of the JMSDF.
Developed under the 30DX program, these frigates combine high degree of automation, stealth technology, advanced weaponry, and a modular design to address a wide range of mission profiles, from anti-submarine warfare (ASW) to anti-aircraft warfare (AAW) and surface combat (ASuW).
Specifications
The frigates will be 133 meters in length, with a beam of 16 meters and a draft of 9 meters. They will have a full-load displacement of around 5,500 tons, with a crew of 90 personnel.
The frigates have modular design allowing specific mission configurations making it highly adaptable. Its flight deck accommodates SH-60J/K Seahawk helicopters, an essential instrument in ASW and maritime patrol operations.
The modular approach also enables the integration of unmanned systems such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), extending the operation reach and capabilities of the frigates.
Its engines are powered by a combined diesel and gas (CODAG) propulsion system, including Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine and MAN diesel engines, providing maximum speed of over 30 knots and a range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles.
Capabilities
It is built to minimize the radar cross-section (RCS) and infrared signature, making it harder to detect by sensors. Meanwhile, the hull and superstructure are constructed using radar-absorbent materials which deflects radar waves which enhances the ship’s survivability in contested environments.
It has a sophisticated array of sensors and systems that enhance situational awareness and combat efficiency, featuring the Mitsubishi Electric OPY-2 AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) a multifunction radar providing 360 degree coverage and the ability to track multiple air and surface targets simultaneously.
It also incorporates an OQQ-25 sonar system for undersea detection, coupled with a towed array sonar to enhance ASW capabilities.
In addition for offensive and defensive armaments, the Mogami-class is outfitted with a variety of weapons. Namely, the 127mm Mk 45 naval gun as primary, suitable for engaging surface targets and providing naval gunfire support.
Furthermore, it is also armed with vertical launch systems (VLS) capable of firing a range of missiles including Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) for air defense, and the Type-12 surface-to-ship-missile for anti-ship warfare. It also carries torpedo tubes for launching the type 97 torpedoes enhancing their ASW role.
